IATF 16949 is not a standalone standard. It is used together with ISO 9001 and adds automotive-specific requirements on top of it. If you supply the automotive industry, ISO 9001 alone is usually not enough.
Who needs IATF 16949?
Organizations that manufacture production parts, service parts or accessory parts for automotive customers, typically at a site where value is added. Pure distributors and many service providers are not eligible for certification.
The main additions
Core tools. IATF 16949 expects use of the automotive core tools:
- APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning)
- PPAP (Production Part Approval Process)
- FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
- MSA (Measurement System Analysis)
- SPC (Statistical Process Control)
Customer-specific requirements. Each automotive customer can have its own requirements, and you must identify and meet them.
Product safety. A documented process for managing product safety-related parts and processes, including special approvals and traceability.
Contingency planning. Plans to protect supply to customers if key equipment, utilities, suppliers or people are unavailable.
Supplier development. Stronger requirements for monitoring and developing your own suppliers, including second-party audits.
Warranty and problem solving. Structured problem-solving methods and a warranty management process.
Manufacturing process audits and product audits, in addition to system audits, with qualified internal auditors.
Practical implications
- Expect more documentation and more data analysis than ISO 9001.
- Internal auditors need specific competence, including core tools knowledge.
- Certification is only granted by IATF-recognized certification bodies.
Getting started
If you already have ISO 9001, run a gap analysis against IATF 16949 and your customers' specific requirements. Most organizations need 6 to 12 months to close the gaps and build enough records for certification.